On Old Age I: A Conversation with Joan Erikson at 90

On Old Age I: A Conversation with Joan Erikson at 90 is a captivating documentary that explores the concept of aging from an introspective perspective. As the title indicates, the film revolves around a conversation with Joan Erikson, the esteemed Harvard-trained psychologist and wife of the renowned developmental psychologist Erik Erikson. At the age of 90, Joan Erikson has irreplaceable insights about life, aging, maturity, and the human condition. Her experience and academic background infuse this film with profound depth, making it more than a simple conversation. This documentary is an enriching journey through the final – and often overlooked – stages of human development as described by a woman who has lived them.

The film starts with Joan Erikson looking back at her life, tracing the timeline from her youth to her 90s. Though she is physically aged, her mental and emotional agility are inspiring, offering viewers a fresh perspective on the aging process. She speaks with a lucidity and wisdom only acquirable after years of a well-lived life. Her reflections become life lessons for viewers, pushing them to view old age as an extension of life rather than a decline.

In On Old Age I: A Conversation with Joan Erikson at 90, the psychologist discusses her perception of growing older with remarkable candor. She stresses that aging, which is often seen in a negative light, is a natural and necessary part of life. Joan Erikson also addresses universal fears and insecurities about becoming less physically able, arguing that this is where human dependency comes uncloaked and our connections with others intensify.

There is a poignancy in how Joan speaks about her late husband and collaborator, Erik Erikson, and their joint work on the stages of psychosocial development. The audience gets a first-hand account of the couple's life and groundbreaking work, allowing them to understand how theory translates into practice. As Joan continues to age, she continues to revise Erikson's life stage paradigm, so it includes the ninth stage of human life, the “Geriatric Stage.”

One of the critical highlights of the film is Joan Erikson's contribution in defining this ninth stage, explaining that it is the stage following 'Old Age' and is characterized by a period of reflection, introspection, and acceptance. She doesn't romanticize old age but brings a different perspective to the audience, encouraging the understanding, acceptance, and acknowledgment of this stage as not the end but a different form of beginning.

Despite handling such a heavy topic, On Old Age I is surprisingly accessible. It presents old age not as a medical issue but as a philosophical one, prompting viewers to consider it from personal, emotional, and societal viewpoints. However, the spotlight remains on Joan Erikson throughout, her charisma and wit captivating the audience, inviting them into her past, her thoughts, her fears, and her victories. This intimate portrayal of Joan allows viewers to establish a connection with her on a deeply human level.

Using a simple, conversational style, the director aptly draws out the essence of Joan Erikson's wisdom, expertly translating her distinct scholarly voice into an easy-to-understand perspective. The film's camera work is minimalist, focusing mainly on Joan throughout her discourse. This effective technique causes viewers to more strongly emphasize her words rather than being distracted by visuals and stylized cinematography.

Throughout On Old Age I: A Conversation with Joan Erikson at 90, Joan Erikson urges society to shift its perspective on the elderly, stressing the need to respect and make space for the wisdom of age-aged individuals. Her words provoke extensive thought on the nature of aging and our societal reaction to it, making it an enlightening viewing experience for all.

In conclusion, it is a film where correctness gracefully meets wisdom to navigate the profound journey of aging. It invites the audience to cherish life despite its ephemeral nature and to respect old age rather than fearing its inevitability. Ultimately, On Old Age I: A Conversation with Joan Erikson at 90 teaches that old age is a stage to be lived, understood, and appreciated rather than merely endured.